Community colleges prepare for enrollment spike tied to coronavirus

Community colleges could see a surge in enrollment this fall as more four-year institutions decide to keep classes online because of the coronavirus.

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BLUE BELL, Pa. — Community colleges could see a surge in enrollment this fall as more four-year institutions decide to keep classes online because of the coronavirus.

Back in March, colleges across the country closed their campuses and sent students home to continue school online.

Peter Warren, a freshman at St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y., said it wasn’t the campus experience he expected.

“It was super upsetting to have to leave so early within the semester. Especially being a freshman, you know, we were so excited to have that first year,” Warren said.

After completing his spring semester virtually, Warren’s rethinking the fall.

“College ... it’s about more than just your education, you know, there’s also a social aspect there. To give all that up to just go online but still [be] paying the same amount or, like, a little bit reduced … it doesn’t seem really worth it,” he added.

In March, colleges across the country closed their campuses and sent students home to continue school online.

According to Warren, many of his friends have considered alternatives such as community college or gap years.

“I’d rather wait it out and be able to go back when I can,” he said.

Although fall semesters don’t begin until August or September, some community colleges are preparing for an increase in enrollment.